Putting your pontoon boat on blocks is a great way to store your boat safely and securely during the off-season.
But, if youve never done it before, it can seem like an intimidating task.
Dont worry weve got you covered.
In this step-by-step guide, well walk you through the entire process, from gathering the necessary supplies to obtaining the right block configurations and lifting the boat onto the blocks.
Well also provide you with some helpful tips to ensure a successful lift.
So, lets get started!.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
To put a pontoon boat on blocks, you will need to use two blocks on the trailer near the rear of the boat, and two blocks on the trailer near the front.
Make sure the blocks are level and secure them in place.
Once the blocks are in place, lower the trailer’s tongue onto the blocks, and ensure the boat is stable.
Finally, attach safety chains to keep the boat secure.
Necessary Supplies
Putting a pontoon boat on blocks is a relatively straightforward process, but having the right equipment and supplies is essential.
To begin, you need to gather the necessary supplies such as blocks, chocks, and ratchet straps.
It’s important to get the right size and shape of blocks for your boat, so make sure to measure the boat before purchasing the blocks.
The blocks, which can be made out of wood or foam, should be wide enough to support the entire width of the pontoon boat and long enough to support the length of the boat.
Chocks are small pieces of wood or plastic that fit between the blocks and the boat and help keep the blocks in place.
Ratchet straps are used to secure the blocks and the chocks to the boat.
It’s important to ensure that the ratchet straps are strong enough to support the weight of the boat and the blocks.
Once you have all of the necessary supplies, you can begin the process of putting the pontoon boat on blocks.
Measuring the Boat
When putting a pontoon boat on blocks, one of the most important things to do is make sure to measure the boat before getting the blocks.
This is essential in order to ensure that the blocks are the right size and shape for the boat.
It is important to note that the size and shape of the blocks should correspond with the size and shape of the boat, as this will ensure that the boat is properly secured when lifted onto the blocks.
To measure the boat, start by measuring the length and width of the boat.
It is important to measure from the outside edges of the boat, as this will ensure that the blocks will fit properly.
Additionally, measure the height of the boat so that the blocks can be secured at the necessary height.
Once the measurements have been taken, make sure to double check them before purchasing the blocks.
This will help to guarantee that the blocks are the right size and shape for the boat, allowing for a safe and secure lift onto the blocks.
Securing the Blocks
Once you have gathered the necessary supplies such as blocks, chocks, and ratchet straps, the next step is to secure the blocks in place.
The blocks should be the correct size and shape for the pontoon boat, so take the time to measure them before you begin.
Chocks should be placed under the blocks to prevent them from shifting.
Ratchet straps can also be used to secure them in place.
Be sure to use a strong and durable ratchet strap to ensure the blocks remain secure.
If you are using chains, make sure to use a heavy-duty chain with a secure locking mechanism.
Once the blocks are securely in place, you can begin the process of lifting the boat onto the blocks.
Lifting the Boat onto the Blocks
Once you have the blocks and chocks in place, its time to start lifting the boat onto the blocks.
Its important to do this step slowly and evenly, as any uneven weight distribution could cause the boat to shift or even cause the blocks to break.
Start by lifting the boat from one end, making sure to keep the weight evenly distributed until the boat is resting securely on the blocks.
If you have a jack, you can use it to help lift the boat onto the blocks.
Position the jack at the center of the boat and use it to lift the boat in a slow, even motion.
If you dont have a jack, you can use a combination of straps and ropes to lift the boat.
Make sure to use enough straps and ropes to evenly distribute the weight of the boat when youre lifting it.
Once the boat is securely on the blocks, its important to secure it in place.
You can do this by using ratchet straps or chains.
Make sure to secure the straps or chains to both the blocks and the boat, as this will help prevent the boat from shifting or sliding off the blocks.
Its also a good idea to inspect the blocks and straps or chains periodically to make sure theyre still secure.
Using Straps and Chains
Once the boat is resting securely on the blocks, it is important to secure the boat in place with straps or chains.
Ratchet straps and chains are the two most commonly used methods for securing a pontoon boat to the blocks.
Ratchet straps are a great option as they are adjustable and easy to use.
Chains are also an effective choice, but they are more difficult to adjust and can be more difficult to secure.
When using straps or chains, it is important to ensure that they are tight enough to keep the boat securely in place, but not so tight that they could cause damage to the boat.
Additionally, it is important to check the straps or chains periodically to ensure that they have not come loose.
When using ratchet straps, it is important to use the correct tension for the size of the boat.
Too much tension can cause stress on the blocks, which can lead to damage to the boat or the blocks.
Additionally, it is important to use the correct size of ratchet straps for the boat.
Ratchet straps come in various sizes and the correct size needs to be used for the boat.
When using chains, it is important to ensure that the chain is not too long.
A chain that is too long can cause the boat to move when it is secure.
Additionally, when using chains, it is important to ensure that they are properly secured.
If the chains are not properly secured, they can come loose, which can cause the boat to become unsafe.
Finally, it is important to remember to secure the straps or chains to something that is secure and won’t move.
This could be a tree or a post.
If the straps or chains are not secured to something stable, they can come loose and cause the boat to become unsafe.
Possible Block Configurations
When it comes to putting a pontoon boat on blocks, there are a few different configurations to choose from.
Generally speaking, youll want to use two blocks at the back, two blocks at the front, and one in the middle.
This will ensure that the boat is properly balanced and secure.
However, depending on the size of your boat, you may need to use more blocks for extra support.
Make sure to measure your boat before purchasing blocks and chocks so you can get the right size.
Another option is to use a V configuration, where the blocks are placed in a V shape at the back and front of the boat.
This configuration is best for larger boats and provides extra stability.
It also allows you to use fewer blocks, which can help you save money and space.
Finally, you can opt for a U configuration, where the blocks are placed in a U shape at the back and front of the boat.
This is also a great option for larger boats and provides extra support and stability.
No matter which configuration you choose, make sure that the blocks are firmly secured into place with chocks and ratchet straps.
This will ensure that the boat is secure and wont move around while it is on the blocks.
Additionally, its always a good idea to use straps or chains for extra support and security.
Regardless of the block configuration you choose, the key to safely putting a pontoon boat on blocks is to make sure that it is properly balanced and secure.
With the right equipment, a bit of care, and these tips, you can easily put your pontoon boat on blocks.
Tips for a Successful Lift
When it comes to successfully lifting your pontoon boat onto blocks, preparation is key.
To ensure a safe and secure lift, there are a few tips to keep in mind: 1.
Make sure to measure the boat carefully before purchasing the blocks they need to be the right size and shape.
2.
Get the right equipment blocks, chocks, and ratchet straps are all essential for a successful lift.
3.
Lift the boat evenly and slowly.
Make sure to use straps or chains to keep it secure.
4.
Have a group of people on hand to help with the lift.
5.
Have a plan for loading and unloading the boat from the blocks.
6.
Once its on the blocks, examine the boat to make sure its secure and all straps and chains are tight.
Following these tips will help ensure that your pontoon boat is lifted safely and securely onto blocks.
With the right equipment and a bit of care, you can easily put your pontoon boat on blocks.
Final Thoughts
Putting your pontoon boat on blocks doesn’t have to be a difficult task.
With the right supplies and a bit of care, you can easily complete the process in no time.
Before you begin, make sure to measure the boat and gather the necessary supplies such as blocks, chocks, and ratchet straps.
When lifting the boat onto the blocks, be sure to do so slowly and evenly.
After securing the boat with straps or chains, your pontoon boat is ready to stay on blocks.
Now that you know the simple steps of putting a pontoon boat on blocks, why not give it a try?.